Full Print Edition

Back Bay to See Several Added Projects in Walsh’s City Budget

Boston Mayor Martin Walsh unveiled his $2.7 billion fiscal year 2015 budget to the City Council . In it is Walsh and the city’s five year $1.9 billion capital plan, “Building a Better Boston,” that the Walsh administration has dubbed an investment program for the City’s future has several earmarks for the Back Bay

The five year capital plan, which will span from FY15 to FY19, has an underlying framework for the strategic use of infrastructure to promote economic development, neighborhood vitality, quality education, health care, and public safety; comprehensive planning to lay the foundation for future growth; and effective government management to deliver necessary municipal services efficiently.

Boylston Street will get $300,000 preliminary design services for improvements to sidewalks and public realm on the north side and south side of Boylston Street from Arlington Street to Massachusetts Avenue.

The Johnson Building will get $5,772,134 for the implementation of comprehensive energy study recommendations for the library at Copley Square. The building will also get $1,950,000 to replace and update piping infrastructure including small diameter hot water piping, chilled water, steam and condensate return piping and related valves in the Johnson and McKim buildings. There will be an additional money for the $75.5 million project that is underway to renovate the Johnson Building. This money will be used for improvements to enrich library services and visitor experience, including new and expanded areas for teens and children, an enhanced entry and street presence, and other improvements.

The McKim Library Phase II project will get $500,000 to upgrade directional and room signage in conjunction with the ongoing restoration project. The McKim Library will also get an additional $480,000 to remediate water infiltration in the basement of the McKim Building and reconstruct the pedestrian plaza on Dartmouth Street.

The Commonwealth Avenue Mall will get $500,000 to repair and upgrade existing pathways.

There will also be money for the $13.5 million Massachusetts Avenue Bridge at Commonwealth Avenue project. This project, which will also use state and federal construction funding, will design and repairs to the bridge.

“While this budget reflects my own priorities, it also reflects the priorities of the people of Boston,” said Walsh. “Since January, we have listened to voices from all across this great city, and we have learned about people’s needs, ideas, and hopes for the future. This budget is balanced, smart, and invests in the people of this city. It invests in our children; in opportunity, in well being, and in our neighborhoods. I want to thank everyone who has worked on this budget; this is a budget that combines deep experience with innovative ideas to produce an ambitious vision for Boston.”